Manchester United’s season kicks off against Crystal Palace next weekend after a very short summer break.
The short break has been filled with issues, and this led to a number of players sitting out the weekend’s friendly match with Aston Villa.
This prompts more questions over selection heading into Saturday’s match with the Eagles.
Goalkeeper
The battle for the number one spot is just getting started between David de Gea and Dean Henderson.
Most probably it will be De Gea who starts in goal, with Henderson getting his chance in the EFL Cup match to take place next week.
However, if this really is an open competition, and Henderson outperforms De Gea in training, then Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may look to reward him accordingly, and kick off the season with a very bold call.
Centre-back
Harry Maguire played every minute of every game in the Premier League last season. He won’t want to miss the season opener.
There is a question over who starts alongside him. Victor Lindelof was said to be in need of a rest by his national team coach after Sweden’s friendly, while Eric Bailly is desperate for a run of games.
This appears an ideal time for Solskjaer to put Bailly in, but he likes Lindelof a lot, and the odds are in the Swede’s favour.
Full-back
Aaron Wan-Bissaka did not feature against Villa, although he should be available to face former club Palace.
If he is not, then Brandon Williams or Timothy Fosu-Mensah will likely fill in.
Luke Shaw came through the friendly and should get the nod over Williams at left-back if it is a choice between the two.
Midfield
Predicting Manchester United’s midfield is far from simple, although we consider Bruno Fernandes a lock to start.
Paul Pogba depends on his fitness. Solskjaer told the club website: “I am not 100 per cent sure,” when quizzed if the Frenchman will be ready.
Donny van de Beek will be ready to step in if Pogba cannot start, while Fred and Scott McTominay are also available.
Nemanja Matic is likely to start in defensive midfield, and then sit out the EFL Cup game in midweek.
Wing
Up front there is no debate Anthony Martial will start. But there are questions about the left and right wing positions.
Is Marcus Rashford ready and shaken off the injury which kept him out of the England squad?
Is Mason Greenwood available after breaking protocols with England?
United lack depth in these positions and there is a chance Dan James could be called upon to start if either Rashford or Greenwood are judged not ready to start.
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